Liverpool 7 Spartak Moscow 0: Philippe Coutinho hat-trick sees ruthless Reds qualify for Champions League last 16

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Tom Doyle6 December 2017

Philippe Coutinho was in inspired form as Liverpool thrashed Spartak Moscow 7-0 to qualify for the Champions League last 16.

Liverpool headed into Wednesday night's Anfield clash knowing a draw would be enough to see them reach the knockout stages of the competition, and Jurgen Klopp's side made light work of their Russian visitors.

Coutinho gave Liverpool the lead from the penalty spot after Mohamed Salah was fouled after just four minutes, and the Brazilian had his second on the quarter-hour mark after a fine flowing move which involved Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane.

Firmino volleyed home the third after 18 minutes as Spartak sank without trace, while Mane added another volley two minutes after half-time.

Coutinho completed his hat-trick three minutes later after his shot took a wicked deflection off of Salvatore Bocchetti, making it four goals in four days for the former Barcelona target.

Mane added another with a neat finish from close range after 76 minutes, while Salah netted his second to complete the rout four minutes from time.

The only setback for Klopp will be the injury to Alberto Moreno, with the defender now a doubt for Sunday's Merseyside derby against Everton.

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